In ancient times, a hall usually served two functions - one was to pay respect to ancestors, and the other was to receive guests.
There were calligraphies and paintings hanging on the wall facing the entrance, with couplets on both sides. Next to the wall, there was a long table with a sacrificial altar, candlesticks, and fruit desserts. In front of the table was a square table with high-backed chairs on both sides. The rest of the space was filled with tea tables and stools, ready to accommodate guests.
After the four of them entered the room, they sat on the chairs on both sides. There were four chairs on each side, but they all chose the two near the door.
They didn't want to be too close to the two paper figures.
Next to their seats, there was a plate of nuts, a plate of snacks, and a cup of tea.
The old scholar warmly welcomed them: "Please have some tea, make yourselves at home."
Bai Youwei picked up the teacup and took a small sip...
